Matt Smith filmed a special video message for his fans after winning at the NTAs (Picture: YouTube)

Doctor Who actor Matt Smith has paid tribute to his fellow actors and thanked fans for ‘the most brilliant time’ in a special video message after winning at the National Television Awards 2014.

He beat Maggie Smith (Downton Abbey), Martin Clunes (Doc Martin) and Miranda Hart (Call The Midwife) to win the best drama performance gong at last night’s awards but was unable to accept the award himself as he was busy performing in a play.

But Matt posed an online video message thanking his fans for their continued support and heaping praise on his fellow drama performance category nominees.

‘Thank you for this wonderful, marvellous award. It’s an honour to be in the same category as such fine, esteemed, wondrous actors,’ Matt, who bowed out of Doctor Who last year, began.

‘I’m sorry I can’t be there to collect it in person. I would of but I’m doing a play – I’m backstage at the moment.

‘Thank you to everyone who voted. You made my time on Who the best and the most brilliant and the most audacious part of my career to date. So thank you I am forever grateful. Have a great night, enjoy the party. Bye!’